Top 10 Twisted and Dark Anime That Mess With Your Head

Although anime is often associated with a stereotypical image focused on elements such as “kawaii”and “yamete kudasai”(please don’t tell me you can hear it), this medium also contains numerous stories that are incredibly “kowai”and may even have a profound impact on the viewer. The depths of darkness explored in anime can be so well-crafted that one may question the true nature of the human psyche.

To suggest some anime, I have compiled a list for you. Without delay, let’s delve into the Top 10 Twisted and Dark Anime.

Talentless Nana

Despite the threat of the ‘enemies of humanity’, mankind is determined to fight back. To prepare for this battle, a group of teenagers with extraordinary abilities known as ‘Talents’ are sent to train at an academy on a remote island. Unfortunately, Nanao is the only one without any special powers and is often targeted by bullies.

Shortly after the enrollment of two new transfer students, the class is plagued by unexplained disappearances. In this anime, those who possess knowledge will hold power and control over those who lack it.

9 The Promised Neverland

promised neverland anime — The Promised Neverland | Source: IMDb

The orphans at Grace Field House, nestled in the forest and bounded by a designated area, lead happy lives. Isabella, affectionately known as Mama, is responsible for their well-being. Every few months, one of the children is adopted, and on one such occasion, the eldest siblings, Ray, Norman, and Emma, offer a farewell present to the departing orphan and encounter their worst fear.

After watching the first season of The Promised Neverland, I would recommend switching to the manga to continue the story from where the anime ended. The second season was disappointing and did not meet expectations.

8 Wonder Egg Priority

wep — Wonder Egg Priority | Source: Crunchyroll

When Ai Ooto is given the opportunity to potentially rescue her deceased friend, she stumbles upon an egg, specifically a wonder egg. After cracking open the egg, she is given the responsibility of saving individuals.

Taking this step will bring her closer to her friend who tragically took their own life, but is it really that straightforward? Fear, trauma, anxiety, and regrets are all intricately woven into Wonder Egg Priority, making it a must-watch for those seeking a unique and dark psychological drama in the world of anime.

Terror in Resonance

Following a terrorist attack at a nuclear facility in Japan, police departments are struggling to apprehend the culprits, but have reached a standstill. Despite their efforts, these two terrorists continue to wreak havoc in Tokyo, posing a constant challenge to the authorities.

Terror in Resonance has a cinematic quality that may raise doubts about whether MAPPA’s recent original works are sacrificing quality for quantity. Plus, it is a creation of Shinichiro Watanabe.

Magi Madokes magical girl

Madoka and Sayaka, two middle school girls, are given the opportunity to become magical girls by Kyuubey, a cat-like creature, in exchange for granting a wish. However, Homura, another girl who is aware of the hidden consequences, urges them to reject the offer. Despite her warnings, the two girls do not take her advice seriously, ultimately leading them down a path of despair.

Puella Magi Madoka Magica has revolutionized the magical girl sub-genre and has received critical acclaim worldwide.

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5. Devilman Crybaby

devilman crybaby anime — Devilman Crybaby | Source: Twitter

Akira Fudo joins his childhood friend Ryo Asuka on his visit to Japan solely to reunite with him. However, to Akira’s astonishment, Ryo brings him to a gathering of immoral individuals and successfully summons real demons. In the midst of the turmoil, Akira combines with a demon known as Amon, transforming into the powerful Devilman. Together, they strive to eliminate all devils that pose a threat to humanity.

Devilman Crybaby has the ability to increase the intensity of its disturbing elements, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a truly dark anime experience.

4. Higurashi: When They Cry

Keiichi relocates to Hinamizawa and quickly becomes friends with Rena, Mion, Satoko, and Reka. However, as the annual festival approaches, Keiichi discovers the dark history of the village and asks his friends for answers, but receives none. With each passing day, Keiichi’s paranoia only grows stronger in this unfamiliar place.

Higurashi: When They Cry stands out as one of the darkest and most twisted anime. If you have yet to experience it, consider this a wake-up call to do so.

Attack on Titan

aot anime — Attack on Titan | Source: IMDb

Despite a century of peace behind their enormous walls, mankind was ultimately forced to confront the man-eating titans that threatened their existence. These monstrous creatures breached the walls, ending their peaceful existence.

In the midst of the massacre, Eren Yeager witnesses his mother’s death at the hands of a titan and makes a vow to eradicate all titans from the world. To achieve this goal, he enrolls in the Survey Corps and undergoes rigorous training to become an elite soldier, alongside Mikasa Ackerman and Armin Arlert.

The sheer number of layers in Attack on Titan is astounding, with its world-building captivating and its portrayal of endless despair. It delves into twisted and grim aspects of reality, particularly through its depiction of war.

From the New World

Shinseki yori — From the New World | Source: IMDb

From the New World may not be suitable for those who are easily frightened. This gripping psychological thriller can be summed up in just two words: dark and twisted. It can be incredibly unsettling at times, but once you start watching, you won’t be able to look away.

Despite being a late bloomer, Saki Watanabe eventually awakens her psychic powers and joins the special psychic school, becoming the last among her friends to do so. When children who are unable to awaken their powers start disappearing, Saki refuses to ignore the uncomfortable questions surrounding their disappearances. As she uncovers more and more answers, she finds herself confronting the disturbing truth about her world.

Monster

Monster highlights the fragility of the human mind, revealing both its dark and bright aspects through a remarkably written ensemble of characters in anime. By the conclusion, you will be amazed at how many secondary characters you can recall by their names.

Despite being a successful neurosurgeon at a prestigious hospital and engaged to the director’s daughter, Kenzou Tenma’s career takes a negative turn. He becomes a mere tool, performing surgeries on the wealthy rather than those in need, in order to advance his position. However, when he chooses to operate on 11-year-old Johan Liebert instead of the influential mayor, he faces dire consequences. He loses everything he has worked for, including his reputation and his fiance. The situation only worsens when the hospital director is murdered, and Tenma becomes the primary suspect.

Final Thoughts

Each individual has their own unique interpretation and perception of what is considered twisted and dark. As a result, the concept of darkness can differ greatly from person to person. Keeping this in mind, I have carefully compiled this list to provide a variety of options for you to explore. Feel free to share your own suggestions or replacements for any anime on this list in the comments section below.